Sweet As.

Well, I wish I could begin this report by saying "It all started on a fine autumn morning..." but alas, Queensland weather doesn't always create the perfect racing conditions. As rarely as it rains here, cloud cover, puddles and fresh winds were awaiting the Sweet As team for the start of the criterium series down at the lovely Crestmead circuit. With a fully equipped set up- all decked out withchairs, stands for our beautiful new FELT F3 and AR3 machines, and under the comfortable shelter of SRAM and Zipp tents, the Bundaberg Sugar "Sweet As" Women's Team was more then ready to kick off the start of what was bound to be another successful day at the office. I sound confident...and soon you will see why...

Things were looking good for the Sweet As team. Not only were we looking fine in our Triple Play kit, but the new addition of SRAM Red socks certainly made the difference standing on the start line. I actually overheard Simone decline several offers for pin-up adds modelling her newly acquired socks saying "sorry, not now, it's showtime!"....which clearly shows how dedicated this team truly is ;-). On the start line the field looked strong. Four of the Sweet As riders- Jazzy, Ange, Simone, and I (Brielle) were ready for what was sure to be an exciting and aggressive race. Unfortunately, Sally was unable to race due to other commitments and Bridget is recovering from glandular fever. Although busy and recovering from ill-health, both Sally and Bridget went out of their way to be great support for us. Thanks girls!

All prepped up from a team talk with new Sporting Director Terry Peters, the Sweet As girls were ready with a battle plan as the whistle sounded for the start of the 40 minute + 3 lap event. From making breaks, to covering every other attempt, each representative of the Bundaberg Sugar team took on a role and nailed it with nothing less than 100% effort. It was not all fun and games out on the circuit as about 15 minutes into the race the heavens opened and rain pelted down on us like hail the size of tennis balls!!  Not only drenching the field but our fantastic supporters on the sidelines who were giving us some great cheers and advice throughout the race.

About half way through, the whistle sounded for the prime lap. At this stage the field was altogether so Sweet As again took control with Simone on the front and the Sprint Queen herself, Angie, attached to Sim's wheel ready to stretch out her legs for the upcoming sprint. The power that comes out of Ange's little legs is phenomenal as she made the sprint look easy, taking the WIN!!!

For the second half of the race, the intensity didn't get any easier with the QAS trying their own plans to break the field. The rain died off and so the wind picked up, which meant shattered legs as the speed increased and the accelerations became more frequent. As the field approached the 40 minute mark, a few more attempted breakaways were reeled in just in time for the 3 laps to go sign. Team Sweet As once again took responsibility and took the lead with confidence. As the 2 laps to go sign came into view we got the nod from Terry to prepare for the final sprint. I took the lead, put my head down and buried myself for as long as I could at which time I peeled off and left the rest to my amazing teammates. As the field approached the final small rise into what was then a heavy head wind the three remaining Sweet As girls lined up for the last 400m. Simone took off up the inside as Jazzy found a gap in front on the right. Both girls cleared the field with Simone claiming 1st!!! and Jazzy 2nd!!!

As the first race of the Triple Play Sizzling Summer Series was also the Logan City Cycling Cup, Simone took home the Gold Cup for the win along with the Yellow series leaders jersey, which she will be wearing in the next round.

A massive effort by all involved. Just shows what great teamwork can achieve.

Thank you to Dave, Jason, and Terry for their ongoing support, advice and help with race organisation and set-up. It definitely makes a huge difference.